The Linn County Board of Commissioners on Dec. 22 approved Resolution No. 2025‑30, adopting a $2 increase in camping and general fees for the Marina and County Park to help cover rising operating costs.

Sherry, the park staff member who presented the park’s month‑end financials, told commissioners that the park closed the year with a gain of $49,449.40 but that utility costs have climbed sharply. She reported the park’s water total through November rose to $19,792.54 for 2025 and attributed roughly $5,262.80 of that amount to a previously undetected leak. “That water bill cost us about …” Sherry said during the meeting, urging the board to consider getting replacement quotes for aged water lines.

Commissioners debated fee options of $1, $2 and $3 and expressed concern about the effect larger increases would have on long‑term seasonal campers on fixed budgets. After discussion the board settled on a $2 increase and a commissioner moved that the board “pass resolution number 2025‑30 for the Marina and County Park, setting rates for camping, general fees.” The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Beyond fees, commissioners gave staff direction on several park projects. They asked Sherry to consult K Camp insurance (the county’s insurer referenced in the meeting) about swim‑beach liability and testing requirements and to coordinate with Public Works on water‑quality testing. Sherry said KDHE testing for E. coli can be done for about $35 and noted pH or broader panels would cost more; the board directed staff to “start with K Camp Insurance and the water test” and return with firm recommendations.

Commissioners also discussed cabins and dock work at the marina. Sherry described ongoing issues with Cabin 6 — including recurring odor and possible sewer line problems — and recommended renovating one cabin as a pilot. Public Works suggested advertising for contractor bids, holding a single bid walk‑through day, and requesting drawings and costs from interested contractors. Jesse Walton, Public Works, recommended running the ad and scheduling a walk‑through in January so the board can evaluate contractor proposals before authorizing further spending.

The board recorded no roll call votes on the resolution; the motion passed by voice vote with ayes recorded.

What’s next: staff will circulate the final text of Resolution 2025‑30 for signatures and publish the fee change as directed; staff will also contact K Camp insurance to clarify any testing or insurance conditions for swim‑beach operations and will advertise the cabin remodel bid as directed.